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Occupational Therapy Neurologic Fellowship Program

MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital is one of the largest rehabilitation providers in the Mid-Atlantic region. Our mission is to serve the community as a regional and national leader in rehabilitation services through quality patient care, research, education and training of rehabilitation experts, assistive technology and advocacy. Our one year neurologic fellowship aims to provide practicing Occupational Therapists with an advanced level of clinical training across the continuum of care, participation in academic programs and the research process, and to facilitate leadership and advocacy roles to further the profession.

Program Specifics

Our innovative approach to advancing the practice of Occupational Therapy integrates advanced clinical skills with ongoing research, as well as teaching of OT students, patients, clinicians and other health care professionals. Fellowship graduates will demonstrate advanced clinical reasoning, assessment and intervention skills for individuals with neurologic disorders including stroke, brain injury, and spinal cord injury. In collaboration with Trinity Washington University and MedStar’s Rehabilitation Research Program, fellows will demonstrate excellence in evidence-based clinical care. Furthermore, fellows will be prepared to apply for AOTA Board Certification in Physical Rehabilitation. This program aligns with MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital’s mission to provide exceptional patient care, lead rehabilitation research, and dedication to the education and training of rehabilitation professionals.

Throughout the 1 year program, fellows will complete three clinical rotations, in an acute care facility, inpatient stroke and TBI unit, and inpatient SCI unit. Fellows will also have opportunities to work with and observe outpatient neurologic clinics to experience the continuum of care. Additionally, during the year, fellows will work at Trinity Washington University as adjunct faculty as well as work with a mentor in the Neuroscience Research Center at NRH to integrate education and research into clinical practice.

Contact Us / Apply

Applicants must be graduates of an ACOTE- accredited entry-level occupational therapy program, have passed the NBCOT Board examination, and maintain a current CPR for health care providers certification through the American Heart Association. Applicants must be a member of AOTA and must be eligible for and obtain licensure as an Occupational Therapist in the District of Columbia. At least 1 year of experience is preferred but not required. Upon review of application, select applicants will be chosen for an onsite interview. Onsite interview consists of meet and greet, formal interview with Site Coordinator, Administrator, and Trinity Washington University representative, informal interview with staff, and observation and tour of facilities. Please CLICK HERE for application.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How much does the fellowship cost? Will I be paid a salary?

There is a $45 application fee and the residency costs $1000 for Administrative fees if accepted. As a resident, you will be paid for 24 hours of clinical practice per week, in addition to 6 hours weekly of teaching.

Will I be eligible for benefits?

Yes, as a part-time employee of NRH you will be eligible for part time health and dental benefits.

Do I need an current OT license in the District of Columbia to apply for the fellowship program?

No, you do not need a DC license to apply for the program. If selected, you will need an active DC OT license prior to starting the fellowship program in July 2016

What is the timeline for the Program?

The 1 year Fellowship Program begins in July and ends in June of the following year. Applications are accepted between January 1st and April 1st for a Fellowship beginning in July of that year. On site interviews are conducted in April and Fellowship Applicants are notified in May.

Housing is not offered, however, Trinity Washington University offers dormitory housing, based on availability, at a reasonable rate and in close proximity to the medical campus. Please request a link to the website if you are interested.